Khulna polls: BNP urges EC to take steps to stop police harassment

The BNP has urged the Election Commission to take steps to stop the arrest and harassment of its leaders and activists to hold free and fair polls to Khulna City Corporation.

The call was made when a three-member BNP delegation, led by its Standing Committee Member Nazrul Islam Khan, met with Chief Election Commissioner KM Nurul Huda at the EC office on Sunday—two days ahead of KCC polls.

“Police actions are the stumbling block for holding a peaceful election there,” Khan told reporters after an hour-long meeting with the EC chief.

He alleged that in the last 24 hours, 42 leaders and activists in Khulna have been detained. It is not conducive for fair elections.

“We have told the EC that only one day is left to vote. Make sure that police do not cross the limit.”

In reply, Khan said, the CEC and four commissioners assured them of making their utmost efforts to avoid such incidents.

Describing the present situation of Khulna, the BNP leader said police have raided the houses of BNP leaders and activists and detained them.

“Policewomen intimidated female agents and policemen intimidated male agents so that the polling agents are unwilling to work.”

However, police denied the allegations and said they detained only those who are accused in different cases.